It is estimated that more than 200 million people worldwide suffer from thyroid-related illness, and the vast majority are women. In fact, women are five to 10 times more likely than men to struggle with thyroid disorders.

Growing up, we learn about the heart, brain, lungs, liver and digestive system, but the thyroid gland is rarely mentioned. I did not know where the thyroid was located until a loved one began having health issues. That seems preposterous given how much this small but powerful gland influences how we feel.

When the thyroid is not functioning properly, the effects can be dramatic. People may struggle with weight gain or difficulty losing weight, feel constantly tired or foggy, or swing the other way and feel anxious and jittery. Digestive changes are also common, with some people experiencing constipation and others frequent diarrhea. Too often, patients are told their fatigue and weight issues are “just part of aging,” but that answer is far from complete. While these symptoms do not always point to thyroid dysfunction, they are a sign that the question should be asked.

The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system and sits at the base of the neck. It regulates hormones including T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). T4 is a precursor to T3, the active form of thyroid hormone. A healthy thyroid helps maintain a balanced metabolism—not too fast and not too slow. Problems arise when the gland becomes stuck in a chronic state of underfunction (hypothyroidism) or overfunction (hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism is more common, leading to slower digestion, weight gain, fatigue, constipation and feeling cold. Hyperthyroidism, though less common, can cause rapid digestion, difficulty gaining weight, anxiety and restlessness.

Someone with hypothyroidism may notice weight gain, dry skin, elevated cholesterol, constipation, cardiac arrhythmias, frequent illness, heavy menstrual bleeding, depression and chronic fatigue. While these can occur occasionally for anyone, persistent symptoms warrant deeper investigation.

For years, physicians have primarily used the TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test to check thyroid health. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and signals the thyroid to release T3 and T4. While a useful measure of pituitary function, TSH alone does not reveal whether the thyroid is producing adequate hormones or whether T3 is effectively entering cells to regulate metabolism, heart rate, digestion and other processes.

More physicians are now ordering broader panels that include T3, T4, and reverse T3 and reverse T4, which provide a fuller picture. Still, lab results alone do not tell the whole story. Symptoms matter. Even if bloodwork appears normal, persistent fatigue, digestive issues, weight changes or other signs may indicate thyroid dysfunction. In such cases, lifestyle changes that support thyroid health may be warranted. Functional medicine health coaches can guide patients in this process.

The thyroid does not act in isolation. Other hormones—insulin, cortisol, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone—all influence, and are influenced by, thyroid function. At the School of Applied Functional Medicine, where I trained, we called this the “hormone soup dance.” High stress raises cortisol, which disrupts thyroid function. High sugar and processed foods raise insulin, which also affects the thyroid. Cortisol and insulin feed off one another, creating a cycle that stresses the gland. Similarly, fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone and testosterone ripple into thyroid health.

The takeaway is clear: thyroid health is connected to the entire hormonal system. Stress management through breathing exercises, journaling, light movement and good sleep can help reduce cortisol. Cutting back on processed foods and sugar helps regulate insulin. These steps support overall hormonal balance, giving the thyroid a better chance to function optimally.

Knowledge is power. The more you understand your thyroid and the role it plays, the better you can take charge of your health. This month, I encourage you to focus on stress management and reducing processed foods. It’s a simple but powerful start. In future issues, I will share additional strategies for thyroid wellness.

If you have questions or would like to connect, you can reach me at [email protected].
Here’s to feeling good!

Dawn Mills

Dawn is an AFMC (Applied Functional Medicine Certified) Practitioner (https://afmccertification.com/)

She resides in Virginia and enjoys spending time with her 4 grown children and 13 grandchildren. Personal health challenges started her on a journey that led her to this field of study and ultimately coaching other people in addressing their own health challenges.  She applies the principles of Functional Medicine, finding the root cause of a disease dynamic, to her coaching, educating her clients and helping them make the lifestyle changes necessary for  addressing issues such as autoimmune disease, insulin resistance, hormone imbalance, gut health, and infertility. 

Dawn provides one-on-one coaching, coaching groups and classes.

Feel free to reach out with questions –  [email protected]